A driver may have an obligation to yield to other traffic even when there is no yield sign in place. For example, if a driver making a left-hand turn on a green light fails to yield to oncoming traffic a police officer may issue a ticket or citation for failure to yield.
A failure to yield violation is generally punishable by a fine and points on your driver’s license.
In South Dakota, as in many states, drivers are required to follow rules of the road, which include yielding to other traffic under certain conditions, even when a yield sign is not present. For instance, when a driver is making a left turn at an intersection with a green light, they must yield to oncoming traffic that is going straight through the intersection. If a driver fails to yield appropriately, they can be cited by law enforcement for a failure to yield violation. The consequences of such a violation typically include a monetary fine and may also result in points being added to the driver's license. Accumulating points can lead to increased insurance rates and, if too many are accumulated, possible suspension of the driver's license. The specific fines and points system may vary, and it is important for drivers to be aware of these rules to avoid penalties and ensure road safety.